Utilities Installations

Installations, either pipeline or wireline, may be considered encroachments, crossings, or both.

An encroachment is a pipeline or wireline that enters the railroad company's right-of-way and either does not leave the right of way or follows along the right of way for some distance. These installations should follow Procedures for Encroachments.

A crossing is a pipeline or wireline that enters the railroad company's trackage from one side of the right-of-way to the other side of the right of way in as near a straight line as possible. These installations should follow Procedures for Pipeline Crossings or Procedures for Wireline Crossings. Or, you may use our new online application process.

This online application process will allow you to complete an application for a wireline or a pipeline crossing electronically, and will save you time and money - avoiding the delays, expense and uncertainty of mailing applications to us. Due to the complexities of encroachments you cannot submit an online application for an encroachment

If an installation entails both an encroachment and a crossing, procedures for both must be followed. However, only one Application Form (PDF File) [6K PDF] needs to be filled out. This single application must be accompanied by both the appropriate Exhibit "A" document (describing the crossing) and complete engineering plans (detailing the encroachment).

If the installation method for this utility is to involve the use of a directional drilling method, specific guidelines established by the Railroad must be met. That detail is available by accessing the Interim Guidelines for Horizontal Directional Drilling (PDF File) .

Not Sure Where to Start?

Select the appropriate set of "Procedures" from the links above (pipeline or wireline – encroachment or crossing). The procedures information will include a detailed outline of the application process from start to finish, including which forms you will need, how to print copies of them, and where to send them once they have been completed, unless you use our online application process which is self explanatory.

If you have followed this process before and know which documents you need, you may select them from the list below, or you may use our new online application process.

Procedures and Application Forms

The minimum that you must submit to the Contact Person:

• Application Form (PDF File)
• A map indicating the general location of the crossing (a city street map or county map upon which you have marked the location of the installation), and
• Exhibit A (Choose applicable form below).

Pipeline Installation

Forms: Print a copy, complete, and mail or fax

Exhibit "A" – Flammable (PDF File)

Exhibit "A" – Non-Flammable (PDF File)

Exhibit "A" – Gas Line (PDF File)

Completed Exhibit "A" (PDF File) Sample Copy

Engineering Specifications

Wireline Installation

Forms: Print a copy, complete, and mail or fax

Exhibit "A" - Overhead Wireline Crossing 750 Volts or Less (PDF File)

Exhibit "A" - Overhead Wireline Crossing Over 750 Volts (PDF File)

Exhibit "A" – Underground Wireline Crossing 750 Volts or Less (PDF File)

Exhibit "A" – Underground Wireline Crossing Over 750 Volts (PDF File)

Completed Exhibit "A" (PDF File) Sample Copy

Engineering Specifications

Optional Service
For Rush Handling (applicable for crossings only):

• Rush Application Form (PDF File) [4K PDF], (print a copy, complete and mail with check), and
• Rush Fee of $3,055

Additional Information Applicable to both Pipeline and Wireline Installations

• Wireline/Pipeline Encroachment Planning Guide and Construction Procedures
• Minimum Safety Requirements for Contractors
• Interim Guidelines for Horizontal Directional Drilling (PDF File)
• Railroad Protective Liability Insurance
  Information on coverage: rates and application form.
• Pipeline, Wireline, Right of Entry and Drainage Contacts